Actor Tovino Thomas is a name to reckon with in Mollywood. The actor, who is credited with portraying both the villain and the hero characters with the same elan, has been able to carve a niche for himself.

'Oru Mexican Aparatha', 'Maradonna', 'Aami', 'Mayaanadi', 'Theevandi' and 'Oru Kuprasidha Paiyan' are some of his best. Today, as he turns 31, let's a look at the growth of the versatile actor and what makes him unique:

From villain to dashing hero

Just like how Mohanlal began his acting career as a villain, Tovino too grabbed eyeballs as the 'bad guy'. Amid the fresh crop of youngsters, he stood out for his portrayal of negative roles. Though Godha was his solo hit at box office,the critically acclaimed Guppy saw the actor handling two emotions simultaneously - both as the hero and the antagonist. For the Unni Mukundan-starrer 'Style', Tovino played the stylish antagonist. Then, he was noted for two of his characters – either the hunky politician from 'ABCD' or the funny-wiered guy from 'You Too Brutus'. The year 2018 also witnessed his Tamil debut in Dhanush-starrer 'Maari 2', again another badass. He has an array of films lined up for the coming year, making him one of the most busy actors of Mollywood.

Hardwork and perfection go hand-in-hand

“For the Godha, there was just two-three scenes where I had to play the wrestler. And I wanted it to come out well - in the most professional manner,” Tovino had told Onmanorama during the promotions of 'Godha'. For those two-three scenes, Tovino underwent a training for one month in Fort Kochi and a workout session for two months.

Well, who else would go for such hardships!

“I am a lazy person but when I am not in shape, I don't feel the confidence,” he had said once.

The actor who is active on social media never fails to inform or impress his fans and followers in the virtual world. During the August floods in Kerala, while many celebs were helping out through social media, Tovino chose to do it the hard way. He reached out to people in flood-hit areas and inspired many to face the calamity bravely.

It doesn't end there. He also has his own style to take on the dreaded trollers. For instance, when he posted a post-workout picture of him, one of his followers enquired whether his leg had an inflammation. The actor took it in the good humour and responded by saying 'wow it is a new piece of comedy.'

Another factor that sets him apart is that one doesn't need to go through his PR or manager to get in touch with him. He attends all calls on his own and we love him for that.

The family man

Though a busy actor, he spends quality time with his family too. He got married to his classmate-turned-lover Lydia, who stood beside him through thick and thin. He is also a doting father to their lovely daughter.